Doing Your 'Due Diligence' Before Purchasing a Residential Property

Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you will ever make. While it can be exciting, the process can also be fraught with risks if proper care is not taken. This is where due diligence becomes essential—it is the safeguard that ensures your home purchase does not turn into a costly mistake. But what exactly does ‘due diligence’ mean, and how can you do it effectively?

Here is a guide to help you navigate this critical step in your property journey.

What Is Due Diligence?

Due diligence is the process of investigating and reviewing a property to ensure you fully understand what you are purchasing. It is about uncovering potential issues with the property, verifying its value, and ensuring you are comfortable with all the legal and financial implications of the purchase.

By doing your due diligence, you can avoid unpleasant surprises like unexpected costs, legal disputes, or structural problems after committing to an unconditional agreement.

Key Steps in the Due Diligence Process

1. Check the Title and Ownership Details

One of the first things to check is the property’s legal title. This involves confirming that the seller has the legal right to sell the property and that the title is free from restrictions or encumbrances, such as mortgages, easements, or covenants that could impact your plans for the property.

For example, an easement might allow a utility company access to part of your property, which could restrict where you can build or garden. A lawyer can help you review the title thoroughly and explain any implications.

2. Review the LIM (Land Information Memorandum)

A LIM report is an essential document that provides valuable insight into the property’s history and compliance with local council regulations. It may include information about building consents, resource consents, zoning, drainage, and whether the property is at risk of flooding or erosion.

If the LIM report highlights unconsented building work, you may need to investigate further to ensure this does not cause issues with insurance or resale value.

3. Get a Building Inspection

A professional building inspection is critical to uncovering structural issues, dampness, or potential hazards that could be expensive to fix.

No matter how polished a property may look during an open home, there could be underlying problems such as leaky roofs, cracked foundations, or pest infestations. A building inspector will provide a detailed report, helping you decide whether to proceed or negotiate repairs with the seller.

4. Understand the Market and Valuation

It is important to ensure the price you are paying reflects the property’s true market value. Engage a registered valuer to provide an independent valuation, which will give you confidence that you are not overpaying.

In some cases, a valuation may be a condition of your mortgage approval. It also helps in negotiating the purchase price, especially if the valuation comes in lower than expected.

5. Review the Sale and Purchase Agreement Carefully

The Sale and Purchase Agreement is the contract that sets out the terms of the sale. Key clauses to watch include:

• Conditions: Ensure there are conditions that protect your interests, such as a finance condition, which allows you to back out if your loan is not approved.

• Settlement Date: Make sure this aligns with your plans.

• Warranties and Deletions: Check that the standard terms and conditions have not been altered to remove warranties, or other rights under the agreement, such as the right to requisition a title.

• Chattels: Check the list of included items, such as appliances or curtains, to avoid disputes later.

Seek legal advice to ensure you fully understand the agreement before signing. Your lawyer can negotiate changes if needed to better protect your interests.

6. Secure Your Financing

Before committing to a purchase, ensure you have pre-approval from your bank or lender. A mortgage broker can help you shop around for the best deal and ensure your loan structure suits your needs.

Consider additional costs such as legal fees, moving costs, and potential repairs when setting your budget.

The Role of Legal Experts in Due Diligence

While much of the due diligence process involves gathering information and asking questions, there are legal complexities that require professional assistance. A lawyer can:

• Review and explain the title, LIM report, and Sale and Purchase Agreement.

• Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

• Identify and mitigate potential risks.

Their expertise is invaluable in ensuring the process runs smoothly and you have peace of mind before signing the dotted line.

Conclusion

Doing your due diligence is a crucial step in purchasing a residential property. While it may seem overwhelming, breaking the process into clear, manageable steps can help you feel confident and informed.

Remember, a home is a significant financial commitment, so taking the time to thoroughly investigate before you buy is always worth it. With the right professional support and a methodical approach, you can avoid costly mistakes and enjoy your new home with confidence.

If you are considering purchasing a property and need expert advice, contact our team today. Our property experts Richard Allen, Tom Pivac, Robyn Karam, Shannon McEwen and William Swan are here to guide you through the process and ensure your purchase is as smooth and secure as possible.